School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
April 30, 2024
Issue 14
In this issue Alana M., Juliana M, Angelina P., and Kiera P. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Holy Cross brings to you...
An Evening with Rapunzel and Flynn: Holy Cross Semi-Formal 2024
By: Alana Moschella
A time of music and dancing, Holy Cross’s Semi-Formal 2024 was a night to remember. The event was run by Mr. Wojnarski and Ms. Vivilecchia, with the support of the student government. This year’s theme was “An Evening with Rapunzel and Flynn”.
Holy Cross brings to you...
Pink Shirt Day At Holy Cross
By: Keira Pompa
On Wednesday, April 10th, 2024, students at Holy Cross Catholic Academy were encouraged to wear pink shirts to school in support of anti-bullying. Both staff and students wore pink attire in order to promote inclusivity and take a stand against bullying in the school community.
Never-ending math...
The YCDSB Waterloo Math Team Competition
By: Juliana Muzzi
This year on Friday, April 12th, our Holy Cross Mathletes were given the opportunity to participate in the inaugural YCDSB Waterloo Math Team Competition, which was held at YCDSB Board office in Aurora. Over 100 students from across the York Catholic District School Board came together in teams of 6 from grades 9-12 to partake in this rigid competition.
Holy Cross brings to you...
Holy Cross’ Badminton Team
By: Angelina Pignataro
The underestimated yet technical and exhilarating sport, badminton, has again marked its place in Holy Cross. At face value, badminton is a simple sport that involves two or four players using a racket to strike a shuttlecock or “birdie” into their opponent’s court.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
Mar 26, 2024
Issue 13
In this issue Angelina P and Kiera P. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
A challenging contest for students...
The Waterloo Math Contest
By: Angelina Pignataro
Since 1968, the University of Waterloo has been challenging student math enthusiasts around the world, with their math contests. Overall, there are over 80 countries that take part in Waterloo’s contests from North and South America to Europe, averaging above 265,000 total students each year. Contests vary for those in grades 5 to 12, with there being a specialised one for each grade.
Holy Cross brings to you...
March Spirit Week at Holy Cross
By: Keira Pompa
During the week of March 18th, Holy Cross kicked off March spirit week with an event that spread love and kindness throughout the school community. Student government orchestrated the selling and distribution of candy grams to celebrate St. Patrick's day, which occurred on Sunday, March 17th, 2024.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
Feb 27, 2024
Issue 12
In this issue, Juliana M., Angelina P, Kiera P., Kristen Y.L., Nyah C. and Santiago O. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Deeper meaning than you think...
Shrove Tuesday - More Than Just Pancakes
By: Angelina Pignataro
Known to most as a day to gorge over pancakes, Shrove Tuesday or “Pancake” Tuesday holds a deeper religious and sincere history and meaning. Shrove Tuesday is a hundreds-year-old Christian celebration to prepare and mark the commencement of Lent which begins on the following day on Ash Wednesday.
An amazing season coming to an end...
Senior Boys Basketball Season Ends in Heartbreaking Defeat
By: Santiago Ortega
Coming into February and fresh off the new semester, the senior boys basketball team was looking to continue the dominance they’d shown all season and carry what had worked into the playoffs. At 7-1 with a +103 point differential, the boys were the 1 seed in the YRAA West division and got two playoff byes to start as well as home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. In the round of 16, they would face the 4 seed from the north, the St. Maximilian Kolbe Mustangs.
Holy cross clubs...
Holy Cross Ski Club
By: Keira Pompa
The Holy Cross Ski Club is an exciting way for students to embrace the winter season and enjoy skiing and snowboarding with friends. On Thursdays, club members are allowed to leave school early and head up to Blue Mountain, where they will make long lasting memories on the slopes.
New opportunities at Holy Cross...
Electives of Holy Cross - the Religion Department
By: Nyah Conforti
Are you looking to strengthen your relationship with God, or learn more about the Catholic community our school was built upon? Holy Cross’s Religion Department has you covered! The department offers courses at all grade levels, thus giving all students the opportunity to expand upon their faith and spirituality. In grade 9 and 10, religion courses are offered at an open level, thus students can take the course regardless of which stream they are enrolled in.
Holy cross co-op...
The Co-op Department at Holy Cross
By: Juliana Muzzi and Luz Commisso
Everyone knows the dreaded question that is commonly asked to them, especially during their teenage years - “what do you want to be when you grow up”? For some, this question is very easy to answer as they are confident in what career path they want to pursue. For others, this question makes them feel nervous and uneasy as they have no clue what career path they want to pursue in the future. If you are one of those people who are often questioning their future career choice, then Co-op may be the answer you are looking for.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
Jan 23, 2024
Issue 11
In this issue, Madison B., Angelina P, Kiera P., Kristen Y.L., Vanessa B. and Santiago O. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Grade 9s and 10s
The Junior Winter Dance at Holy Cross Catholic Academy
By: Madison Bruch
The junior winter dance was held on Thursday, January 18, 2024 in the Holy Cross Catholic Academy gymnasium. Purchasing a ticket to the dance included a raffle ticket that would be entered into a draw to win a prize. The student whose number was picked received the prize of a gift card.
Brand new events at Holy Cross...
First Holy Cross Pep Rally a Success as Sr. Boys Basketball Head to Playoffs
By: Santiago Ortega
Holy Cross held its first-ever pep rally on Monday, January 15th and it was a great success with a considerable turnout, some entertaining events, and another win from the senior boys basketball team to finish the regular season 7-1, with the playoffs coming soon in February. With everyone gathered in the cafeteria, a hype video was played for the team and all who wanted could get their faces painted. Then, everyone came into the gym. Starting players were announced to much applause after a speech from the athletic council leaders and the game was underway. Holy Cross once more started with a strong lead supported by the biggest crowd they’ve seen all year.
Grade 10s
Market Fair Madness
By: Vanessa Bonofiglio
On December 5th, 7th, 12th, and 14th, the students of Holy Cross got to experience another amazing market fair! The grade 10 business students were selling items such as sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, brownies, rice krispies, waffles with ice cream, chocolate-covered strawberries, coffee, popcorn, cotton candy, smores, pancakes, and many more!
Therapeutic Paws at Holy Cross...
Therapy Dogs Come to Holy Cross
By: Keira Pompa
With exam season fast approaching, everyone could use a little time to relax and rejuvenate, and there’s no better way to relieve stress than playing with adorable puppies! On Friday January 19th, during all three lunches, students got the opportunity to spend a few minutes playing with a wide variety of fun-loving dogs.
Opportunities at Holt Cross...
The Math Department of Holy Cross
By: Angelina Pignataro
Math is the recognized language of the universe. Although a mandatory course taken throughout high school, Math is so much more than that. Holy Cross’ Math department has a multitude of different courses for students with varied skill sets and has implemented many learning strategies that delve deep into core thinking to help students achieve their goals. After the grade 9 destreamed or locally developed Math course, students can take Locally Developed, Applied or Academic Math in grade 10, based on their level of learning.
New opportunities for students...
Science Electives of Holy Cross
By: Kristen Ymanuelle Legaspina
As the first half of the school year comes to an end, everyone looks out for elective courses that they could possibly take in the following school year. Students choose their courses to comply with a requirement they may need in the future or simply for their interest. At Holy Cross, many electives are offered but one specific department catches the attention of many.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
December 21, 2023
Issue 10
In this issue, Nyah C., Ethan P., Teresa C., Candelaria J., Kristen Y.L., Kishan K. and Santiago O. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Changing lives at Holy Cross...
The Shoebox Project Making a Difference in Women's Lives
By: Kishan Kasotharan
The Women on the Rise club, founded by a Holy Cross alumna named Margarita Muscat and currently being led by a dedicated grade 12 student named Zainab Kermalli, has concluded its recent initiative, The Shoebox Project. I got the opportunity to interview Zainab, who told me about the Women on the Rise, the initiative, and the profound rewards of leading this inspiring cause.
Advent season is upon us...
Advent at Holy Cross
By: Ethan Pham
On December 6th, the feast day of St. Nicholas, Holy Cross celebrated its annual advent mass. Father Joshua, now our community pastor for over a year, brought us together to share a few invaluable lessons and preach the word of God, acting as a reminder of our belief in an increasingly secular world.
Choosing electives...
HCCA’s Open House, Welcome Class of 2028!
By: Teresa Cosentino
On November 30th at 7:00pm, grade seven and eight students from local schools visited Holy Cross for the School’s annual Open House. Future HCCA hawks were greeted by the current student volunteers and the HCCA mascot, Marty the Hawk. The various Clubs and Committees at Holy Cross were showcased in the cafeteria and atrium; such as the Student Council, Youth Ministry, and Art Committee.
Spreading awareness in Holy Cross...
Senior Boys Basketball Team Starts Season Undefeated Going Into Christmas Break
By: Santiago Ortega
4 games into the season, the senior boys basketball team seems unstoppable. Undefeated at 4-0, the boys have crushed their competition so far into the season and look to continue with their momentum past the Christmas break.
Choosing electives...
The 4 Days of Christmas at Holy Cross
By: Candelaria Jaramillo
The days of Christmas are upon us, and our hardworking student government has made sure to say goodbye to the 2023 school season with a bang! They have prepared four fun-filled days of Christmas Spirit Week, and it is bound to be better than ever before.
Spreading awareness in Holy Cross...
Anti-Bullying Awareness Week Radiate Positivity in Holy Cross
By: Kristen Ymanuelle Legaspina
Anti-Bullying Awareness Week took the halls of Holy Cross Catholic Academy on November 20 to 24, 2023 through the organisation of the SAFE & ESP Club led by Ms. D’Ippolito. The event lasted a week filled with activities every student could participate in to spread the positive energy throughout the school.
Choosing electives...
Electives of Holy Cross - the Canadian World Studies Department
By: Nyah Conforti
Have you ever wondered how the government works? Been curious about how past events have shaped our present? Desired to expand upon your communication and critical thinking skills? Courses in the Holy Cross Canadian World Studies (CWS) Department are the perfect fit for you! Encompassing both Canadian studies and social sciences, the department offers courses for all grade levels, with senior-level courses being offered as electives.
New opportunities for students...
Electives of Holy Cross - the Physical Education Department
By: Nyah Conforti
Are you looking to expand upon your athleticism? Try new activities and adopt a healthier lifestyle? Physical education courses are the right fit for you! The Phys. Ed. Department offers courses for students of all grade levels and skill sets. Students looking to build upon their active lifestyles can enrol in courses directed towards healthy active living, or classes like Weight Room that focus on more targeted fitness goals.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
November 28, 2023
Issue 9
In this issue, Nyah C., Kiera P., Angelina P., Madison B., Vanessa B., Alessia B., Katelyn H. and Santiago O. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
New in Holy Cross Sports...
Hawks Fall YRAA Playoff Results
By: Santiago Ortega
The school year is rapidly progressing, and the fall sports season came and went quickly. With November came the playoffs for all fall YRAA sports, meaning 5 of our school’s teams would compete to win a YRAA title. First came the senior boys soccer team, who were 2-time defending YRAA champions going into the playoffs and looking to ride momentum from their win vs. St. Elizabeth to finish the regular season. As the 4th seed in the YRAA West, they would have to go against the 1-seed in the East, the undefeated Cardinal Carter Celtics, in the quarterfinals.
A day to remember...
Hawk’s Closet - Holy Cross’ Clothing Initiative
By: Angelina Pignataro
Since last year, Hawk’s Closet, which takes students' gently used clothing and resells them at affordable prices, has been a great help for students and an important part of Holy Cross. At its core, Hawk’s Closet starts and ends with students. It all begins when families and students donate their school clothing to Holy Cross. The Hawk’s Closet team, run by students and teachers, diligently and carefully, wash and sort through the clothing articles. Stains and impurities are checked for, ensuring the clothing is good quality and sellable.
Very important for students...
The Importance of Arriving to Class on Time
By: Madison Bruch
Students at Holy Cross crowd the halls, whether it’s to speak with friends or travel to class. They are provided with warning music that plays for approximately five minutes, and indicates that they should be making their way to class. Arriving to class on time is extremely important for the student, their classmates and their teachers.
New opportunities for students...
Electives of Holy Cross - the Moderns Department
By: Nyah Conforti
Are you looking to learn a new language? Develop greater communications skills? Learn about cultures around the world? Language courses may be the right fit for you! Holy Cross’s Moderns Department is centred around language learning. Students have the option to take French, Italian and Spanish elective courses starting in their Gr. 10 year, after completing the compulsory Gr. 9 Core French. French is the most popular subject, with Italian and Spanish having too low of enrollment in the past few years to run. However, if that ever changes, Department Head Madame Vivilecchia expressed that her department would be thrilled to run the courses.
Holy Cross Opportunties...
Electives of Holy Cross - the Arts Department
By: Nyah Conforti
Have you ever wanted to pick up an artistic craft, discover intriguing aspects of history or expand upon your creativity? Holy Cross’s Art Department has you covered! Offering courses in the dramatic, visual and musical arts, our school provides a wide variety of options for students looking to embark on their artistic journeys.
New pathways for students...
Electives of Holy Cross - the Business Department
By: Nyah Conforti
Are you looking to break into the stock market, create your own business or gain a better understanding of how the world runs? Taking a business course would be a great fit for you! Whether your interests lie in marketing, entrepreneurship, information technology, accounting or just basic financial skills, there are plenty of opportunities available for students to develop and enhance their business knowledge.
New in Holy Cross...
Holy Cross’ The Wizard of Oz Play
By: Keira Pompa
Holy Cross’ The Wizard of Oz play is coming soon! Mr. Farro’s grade 11 and 12 drama class is working diligently to prepare a wonderful take on this classic tale. This performance will come to life on Thursday, January 11th 2023 at St.Elizabeth’s Catholic High School in Thornhill.
A day to remember...
Take Your Kid to Work Day
By: Alessia Barbieri and Vanessa Bonofiglio
Interviewer: The first question is, what is your name? Michelle: Michelle Interviewer: Who did you go to work with? Michelle: My mom Interviewer: Why did you choose your mom to go with? Michelle: She was the only one available. (Interviewer laughs) Interviewer: Where does your mom work? Michelle: At UHA Interviewer: So, what is her job? Michelle: To insert blood and pump out other stuff.
Remembering the fallen...
Remembrance Day Ceremony of Holy Cross
By: Katelyn Henderson
On Friday, November 10, 2023, our school came together to commemorate Remembrance Day. On this day, we honour members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the RCMP who have served to protect, with their strength and perseverance, our core values and rights that we have today (Legion). We also honour those who continue to serve our country today, the people who will protect the citizens of our country for present and future generations. We stop for a moment in our busy lives for two minutes of silence to honour the fallen and recognise their sacrifices at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Remembrance Day serves as a unifying force that brings together people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds (Royal British Legion). Our school has actively contributed to encouraging this sense of unity.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
October 31, 2023
Issue 8
In this issue, Nyah C., Teresa C. and Santiago O. are covering school events run by students and their classes.
A night to remember...
Awards Night
By: Teresa Consenting
On Wednesday, October 18, Holy Cross Catholic Academy recognized its finest students at its annual Academic Awards Night. The theme of the night was fittingly: Celebrating Excellence. Friends, family and the School community gathered to celebrate the 2022-2023 academic achievements of Grades 9 through 11 students (Grade 12 students received their awards at their Graduation ceremony). The festivities took place in the Holy Cross school gym filled with balloons, decorations and proud students.
New in Holy Cross Sports...
Nothing but Net for the HCCA Jr. Girls Basketball Team
By: Nyah Conforti
This year, the HCCA Jr. Girls Basketball team is taking the YRAA by storm! Having won their first seven games, the team is now leading the Central-West division with 295 points. Coaches Ms. Longo and Ms. Suriano give all the credit for the team's success to the players, describing them as a lineup filled with “talent, athleticism, and drive.”
October Sr Boys Soccer Roundup
Senior Hawks Boys Soccer Ready for Playoffs and Looking to Defend Title
By: Santiago Ortega
As the school year starts, so does Holy Cross Hawks soccer and, once again, expectations are high as past Holy Cross senior boys soccer teams have won 3 OFSAA championships. This year was no different with the senior boys coming in as 2-time defending YRAA champions and looking for a three-peat.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
June 20, 2023
Issue 7
In this issue, Serena M., and Tèa P. are covering important school events and activities.
Grade 12s
A Breakfast to Remember
By: Serena McMillen & Tèa Papayanakis
On Wednesday, May 31, 2023, the Holy Cross Parent Council and Ms. Mauti arranged a Grad Breakfast for the Grade 12s who are leaving the school this year. Prior to the Grad Breakfast, the students and parents attended a graduation mass led by Father Josh. The mass was hosted in the school gymnasium and the breakfast was in the cafeteria. The events were a success and a memorable moment for the Grade 12 graduates!
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
April 25, 2023
Issue 5
In this issue, Alana M is covering important school events and activities.
Keeping Holy Cross Green
Eco Spirit Week
By: Alana Moschella
The HCCA Environmental Club thanks all those who supported their initiatives this week and hoped you became more aware of your role within our environment. Happy Earth Month Hawks!
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
February 28, 2023
Issue 3
In this issue, Izabella S and Alana M are covering important school events and activities.
Learn something new everyday,
The Get REAL Movement Comes to Holy Cross
By: Alana Moschella
From February 6th 2023 to February 10th 2023, our school community welcomed two speakers from The Get REAL Movement; Clem (he/him) and Kamau (he/him). The Get REAL Movement is a Canadian non-for profit organization focusing on combatting 2SLGBTQ+ discrimination, racism, and bullying in schools, summer camps, and workplaces.
Grade 9
Geo Fair
By: Izabella Ferreira Stalteri
We are all familiar with the well-known Science Fair where students conduct an experiment or display their science based projects to a group of judges. The Holy Cross Canadian World Studies department has taken this concept as inspiration for the grade 9 Geo-Fair. Every semester, grade 9 geography students take part in the fair allowing them to showcase their hard work on their semester projects.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
February 2, 2023
Issue 2
In this issue, Izabella S and Laura T are covering school events run by students and their classes.
New Initiative at HCCA
Hawks Closet
By: Izabella Ferreira Stalteri
As many parents and students know, the school uniform can be fairly expensive, especially for families with multiple children attending Holy Cross. Oftentimes, students will also grow out of their uniform fairly quickly, with it also going to waste once they graduate. The uniform is usually in good condition when it is no longer in use, which gave a group of Grade 12 Holy Cross students a very good idea.
Staff Enjoyed...
HCCA Silent Auction
By: Laura Tamburro
On Thursday, December 14 2022, Mr. Mattei’s Grade 12 business leadership class held a silent auction to raise money for the ShareLife foundation. Teachers were given the opportunity to “silently” bid on products donated by the students running the auction.
Movember: Before & After
Mr. Wojnarski
Mr. M Panetta
Mr. Mattei
Mr. Texiera
